Licorice

Medicinal Properties

Licorice is known throughout the world for its wide variety of
medicinal properties. The reason for these properties can be
linked to a certain compound found within the roots of the plant
known as Glycyrrhizic Acid. This acid, seen to the right, is
said to be capable of treating ulcers and asthma or causing
serious health problems if taken in large enough doses. This
acid is found in higher concentrations in the fibrous root
system which grows closer to the surface rather than the tap
root which grows deeper.

Beneficial Properties:

The following are afflictions that may be treatable with the help of
licorice intake;

-Peptic Ulcers
There are mixed results that show licorice taken with
antacids can help to treat ulcers.

-Canker sores
Gargling dissolved licorice may help with pain relief

-Eczema
It has been found using a licorice gel with 2% concentration
of Glycyrrhizic acid can help
relieve itching, swelling, and redness.

-Indigestion
Studies have shown that using an herbal formula known as
Iberogast, which also contains the
anti-indigestion ingredients peppermint and chamomile, can reduce
indigestion. It is
unclear whether the licorice had an effect or not.

-Upper Respiratory Infections
Licorice has been found to help with symptoms associated with
asthma. The results are
mixed and inconclusive whether the licorice had an effect.

-Weight loss
A study found that normal weight patients who took 3.5 grams
of licorice a day for 2 months
exhibited lowering in levels of body fat. However, taking
licorice over extended periods of time
is known to cause many medical problems and is not advised.

Toxic Properties:While licorice is capable of treating a multitude of
symptoms, precautions must be made when considering to take
licorice as an alternative medicine. Most licorice related
supplements and medicines contain around 2% Glycyrrhizic acid.
It has been found that reaching a daily intake of 100mg-400mg of
Glycyrrhizic acid can cause many serious health problems. It is
recommended that a safe amount for consumption would be around
10mg/day. If this is exceeded the acid can cause;